Systems and methods for storing and dispensing medication

ABSTRACT

A medication storage/dispenser unit comprises a processor connected to medication package storage compartments. The storage compartments comprise a medication package, and preferably may also include a content reader, a medication information reader, and a medication package indicator. The processor receives a medication request from the medical information system, receives content and other medication from the storage compartments, processes the information and automatically opens the appropriate compartment with the correct medication.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates, in general, to the field of medicationdispenser systems. More specifically, the present invention is directedto a variety of systems and methods which may be used for storage anddispensing medication.

2. Description of the Related Art

The present invention overcomes the shortcomings and the deficiencies ofthe prior art and is directed to systems and methods which solve or atleast substantially reduce the impact of problems associated withexisting pharmaceutical and medication dispenser systems.

Currently in the field of medication dispensing systems, a typicalsystem includes a computer controlled machine which stores, processes,and packages medication for distribution. The computer receives apatient's prescription, processes the appropriate dosage, and dispensesthe unpackaged medication into containers or packages. The packages maywork in a number of different settings for a specific patient or thepackage may contain a single specific product. Such conventional solidpharmaceutical packaging systems provide many advantages in largepharmacy formularies and pharmaceutical distribution centers primarilydue to the physical size of the packaging device.

Personal medication with individual packages that group medicationsbased on their administration times as well as several packages ofindividual medications divided by dosage are well known in the art. Suchexisting systems provide advantages for distribution, but many problemsremain.

One significant deficiency of conventional automated dispensing systemsis that they require considerable resources. For example, existingsystems require sophisticated management software to process, retrieve,dispense, and track the different medications. In addition, they areoften very large and require dedicated space. Finally, such systems arealso very expensive and are unavailable or impractical for smallerhealthcare facilities, such as nursing homes, local pharmacies, andindividual hospital floors.

Many health care facilities still use distribution pharmacies in whichemployees inventory, process and distribute the medication. This isundesirable because several studies have shown that human error is asignificant cause in the distribution and administration of incorrectmedication. Administration of incorrect medication can result inmistreatment, severe health complications and even death. However,studies have also shown that such problems are significantly reducedwhen automated dispensing systems are utilized. Automated dispensingsystems are typically used to store and provide access to theprescription medications based on a doctor's order.

Another deficiency of existing systems is that they are inefficient insituations where several medications need to be dispensed at schedulestimes and in situations where medications must be dispensed immediatelysuch as in hospital emergency rooms or when a new patient is admitted toa nursing home and the medications for the individual have not yet beendelivered. In existing systems, healthcare providers or otherappropriate individuals request the medication from the operator of theautomated dispensing system typically located at a different centrallocation. The operator then processes the appropriate medication andarranges for its physical transportation to the requesting healthcareprovider.

Large health care facilities use a system of transportation tubes orelevators to reduce the delivery times. Smaller facilities such asnursing homes and local pharmacies do not contain such elaboratetransport systems. Accordingly, medications are manually transported toseveral locations.

By way of example, in nursing homes all the medication must beadministered from a medication cart that is pushed up and down the hall.Often times, the medications are delayed in the transport result in theadministration of the medicine at the wrong time. Unfortunately,administration of incorrect medication has become pervasive not only innursing homes but also in healthcare facilities such as hospitals. Thisis especially disastrous in emergency situations where healthcareproviders must immediately evaluate patients, quickly administer care tostabilize a patient's condition.

In nursing homes, fishing tackle boxes are currently used fordistributing controlled substances directly to patients. Once apharmaceutical product has been removed from the tackle box, the entirebox must be returned to the pharmacy from which it was provided so thatthe pharmacy may properly account for the use of the pharmaceuticalproducts contained within the fishing tackle box.

The present distribution of controlled substances in this matter hasnumerous shortcomings because there is too great a potential for thetheft of the pharmaceutical products and inadequate inventory control ofthe products.

Personalized packaging that is prepared in a remote location solves someof the existing problems but many issues still remain. For example,there remain problems relating to access and control of thepharmaceutical products, even when they have been previously packaged.Even though packaging may be personalized, it is still possible for ahealth care worker to administer incorrect medications. Furthermore,there is the issue of controlling access to medications. This is aparticularly important problem related to the handling of controlledsubstances. Additionally, in healthcare facilities where packaging ofpharmaceuticals is personalized, a problem exists relating to the issueof unused medication.

The present invention overcomes the shortcomings and deficiencies of theprior art and is directed to systems and methods which solve or at leastsubstantially reduce the impact of these problems associated withexisting medication dispensing systems.

One object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a systemwhich stores and dispenses medication from an individualstorage/dispenser unit.

It is another object and advantage of the present invention to provide asystem that comprises an independent medical information system.

It is further an additional object and advantage of the presentinvention to provide a system that may be used with any individualmedical information unit within a medical information system.

It is further an object and advantage of the present invention toprovide a system which is small in size.

It is yet another object and advantage for the present invention toprovide a system which can be readily transported.

It is still further another object and advantage of the presentinvention to provide a system which may be used by individuals withoutspecialized expertise.

It is yet another object and advantage of the present invention toprovide a system which is cost effective for both small and largehealthcare facilities as well as other medication dispensing facilities.

It is yet another additional object and advantage of the presentinvention to provide a system that is more secure than existingautomated dispensing systems.

The above and other objects, advantages, and features of the presentinvention will become readily appreciated and understood fromconsideration of the following detailed description of the preferredexemplary embodiments of the present invention when taken together withthe accompanying drawings of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present inventions are directed to a wide variety of systems andmethods for storing, processing, and dispensing medication. The systemsand methods of the present invention are extremely flexible and areeasily capable of processing and dispensing various amounts ofmedications that are prescribed for a number of individuals.

In accordance with a first preferred exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention, the medication dispensing systems and methods employ amedical information system connected to a separate storage and dispenserunit which probably has its own processor. This separation and abilityof each to operate independently provides added security because acompromise of one does not comprise the proper functionality of theother. The medical information system comprises one or a group ofcomputers, servers, or any other devices which are capable ofprocessing, storing, and retrieving various information. Those skilledin the art will appreciate that the prescription management system maybe a stand alone device or a device connected to a network via theinternet, intranet, virtual private network, or other communicationsprotocol.

In the preferred exemplary embodiment, the medical information systemcomprises a computer with access to a patient's records and prescriptioninformation and is either directly or indirectly connected to thestorage/dispenser unit. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatthe medical information system can also be connected to thestorage/dispenser via the internet, intranet, virtual private network,or other communications protocols, such as, wireless or infraredtechniques. This is advantageous because the dispenser unit can betransported from one location to another without moving the medicalinformation system. Moreover, the storage/dispenser unit may be remotelycontrolled to dispense medication from a separate location. For example,in situations where a pharmacist is needed for drug interactionconsultation, the pharmacist can check the prescription and thepatient's records at his/her location and dispense the medication fromthe storage/dispenser unit located at the patient's or health careprovider's location.

In the preferred exemplary embodiment, the storage/dispenser unitcomprises a processor and several storage compartments. The processorcompares incoming information from the medical information system to theinformation provided by the storage compartments within the storagedispenser unit. When a desired medication is available, the processorautomatically opens the appropriate storage compartment in a preferredexemplary embodiment.

In the preferred exemplary embodiment, the storage/dispenser unit alsocomprises storage compartments connected to the processor. Those skilledin the art will appreciate that the storage compartments may beconnected to the processor via a direct wired connection such as, orexample, a ribbon cable, SCSI, IDE, as well as other connection methods.In the preferred exemplary embodiment, the storage compartment alsopreferably comprises at least one mechanism for reading information froma blister package such as medication information, content of the blisterpackage, dosage information, or other information that may be providedby the medication blister package. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that existing blister packages with means for providinginformation, such as bar codes or magnetic strips can be utilized withthe preferred exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Similarlycomputer ships, RF ID tags and/or text reading mechanisms are suitablefor use in reading the information from the packaging devices.

This significantly reduces tracking problems associated with systemswhere a particular medication is added to the automated dispensingsystem in bulk or where the information about the medication is inputmanually into the system. In the preferred exemplary embodiment, eachstorage compartment also comprises indicators which specificallyidentify the desired blister package.

In addition to the various systems and methods directed to the storageand distribution of solid pharmaceutical products while providingcontrolled access to the individual product packages, the systems andmethods described herein also include a variety of innovative solidpharmaceutical product packaging solutions which are able to provideinformation concerning whether individual doses have been removed fromindividual product package cavities. Specific implementations includeblister package members wherein electric circuits individually crossover the backing material on the blister package cavity so that when thesolid pharmaceutical product is removed from the blister package, anelectronic interface can instantaneously and automatically determinewhether the dose has been removed. Advantageously, this allows thedistribution system to determine how many individual doses of aparticular product remain, and it is also useful in controlling accessto the solid pharmaceutical products. Additionally, various bar code andother reading mechanisms are provided for determining both the contentand location of the individual package members.

In alternate embodiments of the present invention, blister package cardmember storage frames are provided which are individually inserted intoa drawer of the storage cart in accordance with a preferred alternateexemplary embodiment of the present invention. Advantageously, thestorage cart includes individual slots for receiving the frames and/orsolid pharmaceutical blister package card members. In accordance with apreferred exemplary embodiment the control system automatically lightsan appropriate slot containing the appropriate solid pharmaceuticalproduct package for a desired patient.

A variety of different types of frames for receiving the blister packagemembers may be utilized in order to automatically provide informationregarding location and usage of the individual solid pharmaceuticalproduct package members. In addition to the use of the frames and/orsolid pharmaceutical product blister package cards, there are also avariety of access control systems directed to limiting access to theindividual solid pharmaceutical package cards. For example, in analternate preferred exemplary embodiment of the present invention, arotary distribution member is provided with one or more reading devicesthat are capable of reading both the type of solid pharmaceuticalproduct package as well as the number of doses that have been removedfrom the individual solid pharmaceutical product package containingmembers.

In alternate embodiments of the present invention, a linear opticalscanning mechanism is provided for identifying the number of doses thathave been removed from a package when the blister package card isinserted and/or removed from the slot of the distribution system.Alternatively, electronic reading mechanisms may be provided with avariety of different access apparatus in order to ensure that theelectronic reading of the card is accurately determined. For example, inan alternate embodiment, an angled reading arrangement is provided whichrelies upon gravity to ensure that adequate electrical contact has beenmade.

In a further alternate embodiment of the present invention, levers whichprovide mechanical cam action are used to secure a reading device ontoelectrical contacts of the individual pharmaceutical packages. In yetadditional alternate embodiments access limiting devices are provided inorder to physically secure the solid pharmaceutical product packagemembers in the storage drawers of the distribution system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a medication blister package utilized by the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 displays a back side of the blister package;

FIG. 3 depicts the blister package without its cardboard backing;

FIG. 4 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the blister package;

FIG. 5 is a schematic posterior plan view showing the electrical wiringlayout of the medication blister package of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 displays a blister package with a bar code;

FIG. 7 presents a blister package with a bar code but without a currentcontact side;

FIG. 8 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10 displays a blister package with a magnetic strip;

FIG. 11 depicts a blister package with a magnetic strip but without acurrent contact side;

FIG. 12 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 18 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 21 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 22 illustrates the medical information system and thestorage/dispenser unit;

FIG. 23 displays a storage compartment;

FIG. 24 shows a top view of the storage compartment;

FIG. 25 displays a cross section of a storage compartment with amedication blister package;

FIG. 26 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 27 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 28 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 29 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 30 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 31 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 32 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 33 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 34 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 35 illustrates an alteranate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While various embodiments of the present invention are discussed indetail below, it should be appreciated that the present inventionprovides inventive concepts that can be embodied in a wide variety ofspecific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed are merelyillustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention and do notlimit the scope of the invention.

FIG. 1, illustrates a first preferred exemplary embodiment of amedication blister package that is shown generally at 10, and which maybe utilized by the pharmaceutical storage distribution and controlsystem of the present invention. The overall blister package comprises atop board cover 11, preferably comprised of cardboard, a clear plasticsheet portion 12 with blister cavity protrusions 14 and a board backing15 on the underside. The blister package 10 is used for storingindividual medications/pills in the individual blister cavities. The topboard cover 11 of the blister package 10 may also include writing orother description information such as the medication's name, or dosage,and/or patent information. In the preferred exemplary embodiment, theblister package 10 also comprises an electrical contact region 16. Theelectrical contact region 16 provides connection to electrical circuitrythat is used to determine which medications/pills are still available ineach package.

FIG. 2 illustrates a back side of the blister package 10 that is shownin FIG. 1. The top board cover 11 and the backing 15, usually comprisedof cardboard or any solid material, secure the clear plastic materialsheet 12 therebetween. The backing 15 also comprises openings 17associated with the blister protrusions or cavities 14 that can beeasily broken for the purpose of retrieving one or more individualmedications from the blister package 10. In an unused blister package10, the openings 17 may be covered with an easily punctured materialsuch as paper or foil to provide easy access to the medication withintheir associated blister protrusions. FIG. 2 also illustrates theindividual electrical circuit switches or conductive members 19, whichare broken or open circuited when a pill or dose is removed from aspecific cavity. FIG. 2 also illustrate individual wiring members 21,that extend into the electrical contact region 16 and correspondingelectrical contacts 22.

The overall electrical wiring layout for identifying access and removalof product from blister cavities for blister package 10 is illustratedin FIG. 3. A simple electrical circuit comprised of the circuit switches19, wirings 21 and contacts 22 is etched or placed onto the backingmaterial. The circuit is comprised of conductive material that has onecontact end 22 at a first position and a second contact 22 at a secondlocation of the contact region 16 of the blister package. Each blisteropening 17 comprises its own similar circuit. The contact region 16 ofthe blister package preferably includes the contact members 22 for allthe different cavities of the blister package. The circuit and itscontact members are used for the purpose of determining whether amedication is still in its blister cavity or protrusion. A current orcharge can be applied to one contact end and if the current passes tothe second contact end, it can be ascertained that the backing is notbroken and the medication is still in its protrusion. Conversely, if themedication is taken out, the opening is broken or torn which breaks thecircuit and the current or charge will not pass through to the secondcontact end.

FIG. 4 illustrates the clear plastic sheet 12 with blister protrusions14 of the blister package 10 without a contact side and without thecardboard cover sheets. FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate view of thecircuitry described in FIG. 3, which shows the circuitry in greaterdetail.

FIGS. 6 and 7 also show alternate views exemplary embodiments of theblister package 10. In FIG. 6, the blister package 10 also comprisesbarcode 25 or a similar information storage means on one or more sidesof the blister package. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatthe bar code may be placed at any location on the package. FIG. 7presents the same blister package 10 with the barcode 25 or a similarinformation storage means but without the electrical contact region 16.The barcodes 25 and other similar information recording means maycontain information such as patient specific information, medicationdosage information, medication expiration dates, medicationinteractions, or any other information as is known to those of ordinaryskill in the art. The information on the barcode is compared to theinformation about the medication, described below, in order to dispensethe desired and correct medication.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate alternate exemplary embodiments whereinopenings or holes 27 on the sides of the blister card member areprovided for the purpose of providing information to an optical readeror a mechanical reading mechanism of the package storage distributionand central system of the present invention.

FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate other exemplary embodiments of a blisterpackage 10. FIG. 10 illustrates a blister package 10 with an electricalcontact region 16 and a magnetic information storage mechanism 28 on oneor more sides of the blister package 10. FIG. 11 displays a blisterpackage 10 with the magnetic storage mechanism 28, but withoutelectrical contact region 16. The magnetic storage media 28 can alsocontain information such as patient information, medication dosageinformation, medication expiration dates, medication interactions, orany other information as is known to those of ordinary skill in the art.The information on the magnetic storage mechanism can be compared to theinformation about the medication, described below, in order to dispensethe desired and correct medication.

FIG. 12 illustrates a preferred exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention wherein a mobile pharmaceutical storage, delivery, and accesscontrol system of the present invention is described generally at 40. Inaccordance with this alternate preferred exemplary embodiment of theinvention, a wheeled cart or cabinet 42 preferably includes a number ofaccessible or slideable drawers 44 within which preferably a pluralityof individual solid pharmaceutical product package blister cards and/orframes containing solid pharmaceutical package blister cards 46 areprovided.

Additionally, in accordance with the preferred exemplary embodiment, acomputer 48 preferably includes a display screen 49 and a keyboard 51.In the preferred exemplary embodiment of the present invention, thecomputer 48 is used for the purpose of accessing patient informationpreferably related to medication dosing requirements. Those skilled inthe art will appreciate that the mobile cart 42 may include a memorysuch as a disk drive or EEprom memory within which data concerningmedication distribution to a variety of patients is stored.

In an alternate embodiment the information regarding patient dosage maybe accessible through a wireless network. Regardless of whether thepatient information is stored in the cart temporarily or whether theinformation is accessed via a wireless or wired network, the systemadvantageously provides a user with quick and convenient access topatient records concerning medication requirements. In accordance withthe preferred exemplary embodiment, when a particular patent is toreceive a specific dose of a particular medication, the user receivesaccess to the patient record via the computer 48 by selecting aparticular patient name in order to identify medication fordistribution.

The system preferably unlocks the appropriate drawer 44, and in apreferred embodiment automatically opens the drawer 44 containing theprescribed solid pharmaceutical product. In accordance with thepreferred exemplary embodiment of the invention, one of the solidpharmaceutical product package blister card members and/or framescontaining a blister card is removed as shown by the frame 52 containingblister package card 53 that is located on the top of the medicationdistribution cart 42. In the preferred exemplary embodiment theindividual using the distribution systems and methods of the presentinvention is able to easily access the medication through the blisterpackage card and return the blister package card and/or frame member 52to its appropriate slot in the mobile pharmaceutical storage device 42.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the frame 61 which iscomprised of a frame having a central location 62 surrounded by theframe 61 for receiving a blister package card member (not shown) whichis compatible with the distribution cart of the present invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the cart wherein thedrawers 44 of the cart are compatible with frame member 72. The framemember 72 illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15 are the same frame members forcontaining a solid pharmaceutical product package card member asillustrated, for example, in FIG. 13.

In this alternate embodiment of the present invention, the drawer 44illustrated in FIG. 15 which is the same as the drawer 44 illustrated inFIG. 14 preferably includes a plurality of slots 73 for receiving anindividual frame member 72 and preferably each of the slots isassociated with a corresponding light 74 that is embodied as a lightemitting diode which may be used for identifying the appropriate slotwithin which a particular medication or patient prescription package maybe found.

In accordance with this alternate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention, the medicine distribution cart 42 preferably includesa computer system for providing access to a particular drawer 44 and theparticular prescription for distribution to a patient that is requiredis advantageously identified through automatic illumination of theappropriate light 74.

In accordance with these preferred exemplary embodiments, it is alsopreferred that a product package card reading mechanism is provided sothat the machine is able to discern and confirm the contents of thepackage when it is inserted and/or removed from a particular slot.

The reading mechanism that is associated with the medical productdistribution system is preferably embodied as a barcode reader, textreader, magnetic stripe reader, RF ID tag interface device, or any otherreading mechanism that may be used for the purpose of readinginformation from the blister package card and/or the frame containingthe card member.

In the preferred exemplary embodiment, the reading mechanism ispreferably incorporated directly into the drawer containing themedication so that information on the pharmaceutical blister packagecard and/or the frame containing the card can easily read duringinsertion and/or removal from the slot. Accordingly it is preferred thatthe reading mechanism be secured adjacent to or incorporated with in theslot of the drawer. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thereader can also be otherwise associated with the medication distributionsystem so that the user may swipe the reader across the blister packageand/or frame upon insertion and/or removal from the slot. It is merelypreferred that the device be incorporated such that the reading occursautomatically during insertion and/or removal of the card.

Advantageously, by providing the blister package card reading mechanism,the computer controller is able to automatically identify the locationof a particular product package. This enables the system to readilyidentify the drawer and slot within the drawer when filling aprescription. Accordingly, the user is able to access a particularpatient record with the computer in order to identify a prescription.The system will thereafter automatically identify the location withinthe card where the prescribed medication or medications are located.This is preferably done sequentially so that the individualadministering the medications can ensure that each has beenappropriately administered to the patient.

As noted, this is performed preferably by automatically unlocking aselected drawer containing the desired pharmaceutical and illuminating alight associated with the appropriate slot of the drawer containing themedication. This is particularly advantageous because the system is ableto automatically identify the appropriate location of the medicationsfor administration even in those circumstances where the user hasremoved more than one blister package card and/or frame containing thecard from the distribution system. Regardless of where the card isreinstalled into the drawer, the system will automatically identify thelocation and store this information. Even if the card is inserted into adifferent location from its original position the system will be able toautomatically determine the new location. The system is able to therebyensure that fewer errors in the administration of medicines occur.

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the present inventionwherein the individual frame members 72 slide in and out of thedistribution cart 42 and wherein no drawer is provided for storage ofthe individual solid pharmaceutical product package card members orframe, containing the card members. Rather, each individual frame 73slides in and out directly from a corresponding location in the cart.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the use of LEDs or otherlights or signaling mechanisms may be utilized to identify theappropriate solid pharmaceutical package card containing frame withinwhich the desired medication is located.

FIG. 17 illustrates the specific arrangement of the frame member 73 thatis compatible with the cart of the device illustrated in FIG. 16. Asshown in FIG. 17, the frame has a hinge 82 which allows a top member ofthe frame 83 to close and secure a blister package 84 between the top ofthe frame 83 and a bottom portion 86. Advantageously this provides goodelectrical connection with the conductive members illustrated in FIG. 3and described above, which are located on the blister package card.

In accordance with the preferred exemplary embodiment, a ribbon cable 89transmits signals to the circuitry from the appropriate drivers of thecart 42, for determining which individual dosage cavities have beenutilized. In the preferred exemplary embodiment, wheels 88 are providedon frame displacement support members 91 and 92 that advantageouslyallow support for the solid pharmaceutical product package frame memberwhile it is partially removed from the cart 42. This is illustrated inFIG. 18 wherein the displacement support members 91 and 92 providesupport for the frame member 73.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate the connection of the circuitry of thepackage member to the ribbon cable with the details thereof shown inFIG. 19. FIG. 20 illustrates the opening and closing of the frame on theblister card. As shown in FIG. 20, closing the upper portion 83 over theblister card ensures a good electrical connection.

FIG. 21 illustrates yet another alternate preferred exemplary embodimentof the present invention, which is shown generally at 100. In thisalternate preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention, the medicalinformation and product distribution system 100 comprises a computer105. Additionally, any other device which is able to store, retrieve orprocess patient information, inventory information, prescriptioninformation or medication requests, such as a server, a personal digitalassistant (PDA), a laptop, or a tablet computer, may also be used. Theindependent medical information and product distribution system 100 canretrieve a patient's medical history and/or prescription information andcommunicate the same to the storage/dispenser unit. It should beappreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that it can processmedication requests based on pre-defined requests such as at a specifiedtime, patient name or information as well as communicate with theindependent storage device.

Furthermore, the medical information and product distribution system 100may or may not be part of a hospital management system. It should alsobe appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that medicalinformation and distribution system 100 may perform various otherfunctions not specified here.

The computer 105 of the medical information and product distributionsystem 100 is preferably connected to an independent storage/dispenserunit 42 via a direct connection, the internet, an intranet, a VPN, awireless, an infrared or any other communications protocol. By way ofexample, FIG. 22 discloses a computer placed on top of and directlyconnected to the independent storage/dispenser unit 42. However, itshould be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that eachunit or device can perform its function in conjunction with other suchunits. For example, one storage/dispenser unit 42 may be used with aparticular medical information system, a computer, and later betransported to a different location and used in conjunction with adifferent computer or other medical information device. Such a systemprovides several advantages over the prior art.

Considerable resources are conserved because individualstorage/dispenser units can be purchased without expensive hardware andsoftware medical information or prescription management systems. Thisalso allows the entire automated dispensing system to be highly scalablebased on needs and desires. In fact, one storage/dispenser unit may beconnected to one or more medical information systems so long as themedical information systems comprise means for communicating with thestorage/dispenser unit 42. Finally, even if the medical informationsystem 100 is not operational, the storage/dispenser unit 42 willcontinue to operate normally.

In the alternate preferred exemplary embodiment of the inventionillustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22, the independent storage/dispenser unit42 comprises a processor, not shown, and several storage compartments108. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that various types ofstorage compartments or mechanisms may be used and that the number ofstorage mechanisms can vary from one to several. The processor, notshown, of the storage/dispenser unit 100 receives information from themedical information system, compares that information with informationfrom the storage compartments 108 and opens the appropriate storagecompartment 108. The storage/dispenser unit 100 also comprises aninternal relay circuit which is utilized by the processor toautomatically open a storage compartment 108.

It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art thatvarious other mechanisms known in the art may be utilized toautomatically open the storage compartments 108. As an advantage, theseparation and independent operation of the storage/dispenser system 100allows it to be smaller and more mobile. For example, FIG. 21 displaysthe preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention as a smallerstorage/dispenser unit that can be transported on wheels 109. Othermeans of transportation may also be used.

The medicine distribution system illustrated in FIGS. 21 through 24 doesnot require the frame support for the blister card package as in theembodiments described above. Rather, this embodiment is compatible withindividual blister cards without a separate frame support.

With reference to FIG. 22, there is shown a storage compartment 108 ofthe type used in the preferred alternate exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention, wherein no frame member is used for securing theblister card. The storage compartment 108 of storage/dispenser unit 100is connected to the processor via a direct electrical connection 112such as a ribbon cable, SCSI or IDE connection. It should be appreciatedby those of ordinary skill in the art that any connection that allowscommunication between the storage compartments 108 and the processor maybe used. This connection allows the storage compartments 108 tocommunicate about their contents with the processor and the overallsystem.

In this preferred exemplary embodiment, once the appropriate drawer hasbeen identified, the slot containing the appropriate blister package andmedication is easily identified by illumination of the light. Asillustrated in FIG. 22, each slot has an associated light fordesignating the slot containing the appropriate card. The systemdetermines this location by preferably automatically reading informationfrom the card when it is inserted and/or removed from the slot. This maybe done via barcode, magnetic stripe or even a text reading device. Thereader may be built in as shown, or manually swiped across the card asnoted above.

FIG. 23 displays a top view of the storage compartment 108 with itscross-section displayed in FIG. 24, wherein individual blister cards aredirectly stored in the slots of the storage compartment. The light 115identifies the appropriate slot. Referring now to FIG. 26, in thepreferred exemplary embodiment of the invention, the storagecompartments 108 comprise a medication package receiver slot 123 toreceive the contact end side 124 of the blister package 127.Additionally, individual storage slots 129 may also comprise informationreaders 125 for reading the barcode 126 or magnetic storage medialocations on the blister packages. As noted, this may also be a textreader.

However, it should be appreciated that either contact ends orinformation storage methods such as barcodes/magnetic devices may not bepresent on the blister package 127 for storage in the storagecompartment 108, which may or may not include the blister medicationpackage information reader mechanism 125.

In the preferred exemplary embodiment, the medication package receiver123 comprises a device that can place a charge or current on a firstcontact end of the circuit on the blister package and measure the chargeor current passing to its associated second contact end. If the currentor charge is detected at the second contact end, the storage compartmentand consequently the storage device can determine whether the opening ofan individual medication or pill cavity has been opened and whether themedication or pill is still present in its package. On the other hand,if the current or charge is not detected at the second contact end, theindividual opening has been opened and the medication or pill is nolonger in the package. This information, the presence of charge orcurrent at the second contact end, is communicated to the processor ofthe storage/dispenser unit and compared with the information for adesired medication from the medical information system 100. Theinformation reader 125 such as the magnetic or barcode reader reads andconveys the information such as the name and dosage of the medication inthe blister package. Since the information is obtained from the blisterpackage itself, the system significantly reduces such problems asadministration of wrong medication and mistreatment thus allowing healthcare providers to efficiently and correctly administer appropriate care.

In operation, a user may retrieve prescription information about aparticular patient. In order to obtain the actual medication, themedical information system communicates with the storage/dispenser unitto check whether that desired medication is available. Thestorage/dispenser unit previously received information detailing whichproducts are contained within the storage compartments of thestorage/dispenser unit about their locations. The storage compartmentdetermines whether the medication is available or unavailable by usingthe information reader and/or the contact end reader and conveys theinformation back to the processor. If the medication is available, thestorage device processor then automatically opens the storagecompartment and turns on the indicator to specify the specific blisterpackage.

FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate another alternate preferred embodiment of thepresent invention which is shown generally at 140. In this embodiment,preferably a mobile cart 144 with individual drawers 145 is provided.Additionally, a computer and processing system selectively providesaccess to the individual drawers within which solid pharmaceuticals thathave been prescribed for patients is provided.

FIG. 26 illustrates the specific cavities within a drawer 145 that areused for receiving and storing the solid pharmaceutical products.

As illustrated therein, lights 148 may be used to illuminate theperimeter of a cavity 151 within which a particular solid pharmaceuticalproduct has been stored. This merely illustrates an alternate embodimentwherein no blister package or frame is required.

FIG. 27 illustrates yet another alternate preferred exemplary embodimentof the present invention which is shown generally at 200. In accordancewith this preferred alternate exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention, a linear optical scanning mechanism 210 is provided and isselectively located preferably directly above the slots within which asolid pharmaceutical product blister package card is provided. Thisembodiment is compatible with the storage drawers of the embodimentsdescribed above, for example.

Although the location of the optical scanning mechanism with respect tothe storage slots has not been shown, those skilled in the art willappreciate that it is preferably located such that the device iscentered over the solid pharmaceutical product blister package cardstorage slot. Additionally, with respect to the access control devicedescribed below, it should be recognized that this scanner could readilybe secured within the aperture of the mechanism. Alternatively, thereader could be located separately from the drawer member altogether.

As shown in the illustration, the linear optical scanning mechanism isshown at 210, wherein the transmitting and receiving portions of thescanner 211 and 212 are respectively provided on opposite sides of ablister package member 214. The linear optical scanning mechanism isused to determine which individual blister cavities within the overallblister package member 214 have been utilized. This is an alternative tothe use of the electrical card reading mechanism described above whereinthe edge connector is interfaced with electrical conductors that areused to read information from the conductive members on the sides of theblister card.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the card reader mechanismdescribed with reference to FIG. 27 can employ a variety of differenttypes of optical reading mechanisms. For example, imaging elements suchas CCD arrays and CMOS sensors may be interchangeably used in order toprovide the requisite imaging data to determine whether a particularblister package cavity has been emptied. In an alternate embodiment,simple optical transceivers may be used which are located in registrywith the columns of blister package cavities so that the contents of theoverall package can be easily automatically determined. In such anembodiment, it may also be preferable to include registration marksalong one or more sides of the blister package in order to effecttriggering of the reading mechanism at the appropriate time so thatreading is initiated for each cavity when the center is located acrossfrom a blister package cavity.

FIG. 28 illustrates yet another alternate preferred exemplary embodimentof the present invention wherein a card removal and insertion aperturemechanism is provided to limit access to the individual blister packagecard member which is shown generally at 220.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, the card removal and insertion aperturemechanism 220 is preferably moveably secured over the drawer withinwhich individual blister package cards are located. Although the drawerand/or the slots of the drawer have not been shown in this illustrationfor the sake of convenience, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the aperture mechanism 220 may be either fixed or movablypositioned over individual slots of the drawer Operation of this deviceis described in more detail below.

The card removal and insertion aperture 220 preferably includes aslotted opening 222 that is sufficiently large to allow users to insertand remove blister package cards and/or frames containing blister cardsfrom a slot in the drawer over which the aperture mechanism 220 islocated.

Advantageously, the insertion and removal aperture can be used to limitaccess to the blister package cards contained within the drawer.Additionally, the card insertion and removal aperture preferablyincludes a slide mechanism 224 that may be used to engage/disengage anelectrical connection to the card. This is described in more detailbelow. As noted above, the aperture mechanism 220 may also incorporatethe optical scanning or reading mechanisms described above includingtext reading mechanisms so that information that is printed or otherwiselocated on the blister package can be read during insertion or removalof the blister package card.

FIG. 29 illustrates yet another alternate preferred embodiment of thepresent invention wherein an angled surface is preferably provided on aside of the blister card member. This embodiment is shown generally at230 in FIG. 29A.

In this preferred alternate exemplary embodiment, the edge of theblister card is preferably designed at a gradual angle of preferablyapproximately 5° and a connector member 230 is engineered on this sideto interface with a corresponding angle feature of a receiving connector235 within the storage device. It should be recognized that the angleportion of the card is not necessary and specifically that thisembodiment will work with a blister package card having perpendicularside edges. The connector member 230 is secured against the side of anopposite angled receiving connector 235 within the drawer.

Metal contacts on the card similar to those described above fordetermining contents of the blister package card cavities interface withthe corresponding contacts within the connector member 230. Theillustration of FIG. 29A shows the blister package card 239 duringinsertion. Spring finger metal contacts 237 on the connector member 230mate with corresponding electrical contacts 238 are used in order toelectrically communicate with the card and identify which individualcavities within the overall package have been utilized. FIG. 29Billustrates the blister package card after insertion within the drawer.

FIG. 30A-C illustrate yet another alternate embodiment of the presentinvention, wherein the blister package card is secured into anelectrical interface mechanism which may have various differentconfigurations. Regardless of the specific configuration, electricalcontacts that are formed on the card member for determining thelocations of the used medications interface with the interface mechanism240 that is secured to the contact members on the blister package cardmember 242.

FIG. 30A illustrates an electrical interface mechanism 240 that issecured to the blister package card member 242 in order to providesecure electrical communication with the blister package card. In thepreferred exemplary embodiment, the electrical interface mechanism 240preferably includes an electrical connector 243 which mates with acorresponding electrical connector of the storage mechanism so that theappropriate electrical signals may be transmitted to the blister packagecard member 242.

FIG. 30B is an alternate embodiment wherein the electrical interfacemechanism 240 also preferably includes a lever 245 that is used to pressopposite sides of the electrical interface mechanism 240 toward eachother with the electrical contacts of the blister package card member242 therebetween. This compressive action is useful in ensuring thatappropriate electrical connection is made with the electrical contactsof the blister package 242. The cam action of a lever 245 forcestogether portions of the electrical interface mechanism 240 on oppositesides of the blister card 242 thereby ensuring an improved electricalconnection.

FIG. 30C illustrates the lever in the closed position.

FIG. 31 illustrates the operation of the lever mechanism to secure theblister card and also ensure that there is proper electrical connection.FIG. 31A illustrates the cam action lever 245 in the disengaged positionwherein the blister package card member 242 may be easily removed. Aslot 247 located in each side of the lever 245 engages a correspondingpin 248 that is also located on each side of the electrical interfacemechanism 240. The space between the slotted portions of the lever 245decreases such that rotation of the lever in a clockwise directionforces the two opposite sides of the electrical interface mechanism 240toward each other thereby securing the blister card package member 242therein and ensuring appropriate electrical contact between the contactsof the blister package card 242 and they electrical interface mechanism240. Advantageously, when the lever 245 is moved to the open position,it disengages the electrical interface mechanism 240 and the levermechanism 245 may also be used as a handle for easy removal of theblister package card 242 from the slot.

FIG. 32 illustrates an alternate preferred exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention which is generally shown at 250. In accordance withthis alternate preferred exemplary embodiment, a solenoidinjector/ejector is provided in order to aid in the selective removal ofblister card package members from a storage device.

In accordance with this preferred exemplary embodiment, a mechanical bar252 is provided perpendicular to a row of cards. An angled member 253protrudes from the bar at an angle to the axis of the bar and the angledfeature engages the corresponding blister package card in order toprevent removal of the blister package card from the slot of the drawerwithin which the blister package cards are located. This is illustratedin FIG. 32A wherein the angled members 253 are each position over theblister package card members. FIG. 32 B illustrates the axialdisplacement of the bar member 252.

When the bar 252 is translated axially, the bar member 252 moves suchthat it engages and disengages the blister package card members 254. Thesystem disengages the cards upon initial interface with the system bythe user and reengages all cards when the user is complete. FIG. 32Cillustrates the axial displacement of the bar member 252 such thataccess to all of the blister package card members to 254 is provided.

FIG. 33 illustrates a slide reader mechanism wherein a blister packagecard 262 is inserted into an electrical interface member 263. Theelectrical interface member 263 has a plurality of contacts 265 whichcan be read by a slide reading mechanism 266.

FIG. 34 illustrates a storage mechanism for use in accordance with thepresently preferred embodiments of the present invention, whereinselective access to the blister package card members and/or framesholding the card members is provided by an opening in an access guard.This alternate preferred exemplary embodiment of the present inventionis shown generally at 300 wherein a drawer 302 includes a plurality ofblister package card members 304 arranged in two adjacent rows onopposite sides of the drawer 302.

The access guard 310 or aperture member traverses across the top of atleast one side of the storage drawer 302. Advantageously, in accordancewith the preferred embodiment of the present invention, accessrestricting mechanisms 312, 314 are provided to eliminate thepossibility of the removal of any of the blister package members thatare not located at the opening of the access mechanism 310.

The access guard member or aperture member 310 may be embodied as theaperture mechanism described above and preferably includes an opening308 which is sufficiently large to enable a user to readily remove oneof the blister package card members 304 while restricting access toadjacent blister card package members. Advantageously, the accessrestricting mechanisms 312, 314 are preferably secured to the accessguard member 310 such that they traverse across the tops of the blistercard package members 304 with the access guard member 310.Advantageously these access restricting mechanisms 312, 314 preventindividuals from removing any of the blister package card members thatare not physically located at the position of the access guard member310.

FIG. 34 also illustrates the bar code reader 311 or rendering mechanismdescribed above for reading information from the package forautomatically identifying the contents thereof.

The access restricting mechanisms 312, 314 may be embodied as wirecables, durable plastic tape, or a linkage of individual members suchthat they restricting mechanisms 312, 314 may be readily traversed alongwith the access guard member 310. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that the access restricting mechanisms may be continuousmembers that wrap around beneath the drawer and are transmitted acrosspulleys in order to ensure the easy movement of the overall device.

In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the systemis motor driven and automatically traverses the access guard member 310to the appropriate slot within which a desired medication is locatedbased on the computer control of the system as described above. In analternate arrangement lights are used as with the embodiments describedabove to enable users to easily identify the appropriate slot formanually sliding and locating the access guard member 310.

In accordance with a preferred exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention, the access restricting mechanism 310 preferably includes asolenoid driven latching mechanism which further restricts access to theblister cards and ensures that only the appropriately designated cardwithin a slot is removed by a user. For example, based on positioninformation that is fed back to the computer controller, the system willonly disengage the locking latch of the position restricting mechanism310 when the position restricting mechanism is appropriately located byuser. This alternate embodiment will prevent access to the blister cardsduring the traverse of the access restricting mechanism 310.Specifically, in this alternate arrangement, the opening 308 includes asolenoid driven latching mechanism that crosses the opening 308 with astiff structure such that it prevents removal of a blister package cardand/or frame containing a card within the drawer until such time as thesystem authorizes the removal of the card. Those skilled in the art willalso appreciate that virtually any locking mechanism may be employed forthis purpose. However, it is preferred that it is electromechanicallyoperated for automatic operation.

In an alternate embodiment, the system employs a small door over theopening that is electronically locked/unlocked for the purpose ofrestricting access.

FIG. 35 illustrates an alternate preferred exemplary of the embodimentof the present invention which is shown generally at 350 in accordancewith this preferred alternate exemplary embodiment a storage mechanism352 includes a plurality of solid pharmaceutical blister package cardmembers 358 that are preferably arranged in a plurality of rows of cardmembers.

In accordance with this preferred alternate exemplary embodiment arolling door that is not shown is provided and this door may beselectively positioned over each of the respective rows of blisterpackage card members. Depending upon access that is provided to a user,the rolling door may be limited in its movement to only provide accessto the first row of blister package card members. Additional levels ofaccess may be provided to any remaining rows. In the illustration ofFIG. 35, the roll top drawer is shown in its retracted position whereinall rows are accessible. The sliding drawer preferably operated insimilar fashion to a roll top desk. However, in the preferred embodimentthe door member is comprised of durable plastic linear members thatlinked along sides thereof. Access to the different rows is restrictedthrough solenoid driven pins which are located to stop the door asdesired.

Accordingly, through this mechanism, multiple levels of access may beprovided. For example, a first level of access may provide all userswith access to a first one of the rows of blister package card members.The locking mechanism may selectively permit certain users orindividuals at certain times to selectively access the second row and/orthe third row. Accordingly, the system is thus able to provide multiplelevels of restricted access.

1. An automated medication dispensing system comprising in combination,a medical information system; and a storage/dispenser unit incommunication with said medical information system, saidstorage/dispenser unit comprising a compartment for simultaneouslystoring a plurality of blister packages containing multiple doses ofmedication, wherein the blister packages are each secured within a framethat provides electrical communication between the blister package andthe storage/dispenser unit; and an interface operatively connected tosaid medical information system.
 2. An automated medication dispensingsystem as in claim 1, where said medical information system is acomputer.
 3. An automated medication dispensing system as in claim 1,where said storage/dispenser unit further comprises an opening mechanismto automatically open said compartment.
 4. An automated medicationdispensing system as in claim 3, wherein said storage/dispenser unitfurther comprises a medication package receiver positioned within saidcompartment.
 5. An automated medication dispensing system as in claim 1,wherein said compartment further comprises an information reader.
 6. Anautomated medication dispensing system as in claim 1, wherein saidstorage/dispenser unit comprises multiple said compartments.
 7. Anautomated medication dispensing system as in claim 6, where each ofmultiple said compartments further comprises a medication packageindicator.
 8. An automated medication dispensing system, comprising incombination, a means for retrieving medication information; and a meansfor storing medication, wherein said means for storing medicationcomprises a means for processing information, means for simultaneouslystoring a plurality of blister packages, a means for determining thecontent of said means for storing medication; wherein the blisterpackages are each secured within a frame that provides electricalcommunication between the blister packages and the dispensing system. 9.An automated medication dispensing system as in claim 8, where saidmeans for storing medication further comprises a plurality ofcompartments and a means for automatically opening said compartments.10. An automated medication dispensing system as in claim 9, where saidcompartment further comprises a means for reading information aboutmedication packaged within the blister package.
 11. A method of storingand dispensing medication comprising the steps of: providing astorage/dispenser unit having a processor, a compartment for storingmedication therein; providing a plurality of blister packages containingmedication within said compartment; retrieving medication informationfrom an information system; communicating said medication information tosaid processor; wherein the blister packages are each secured within aframe that provides electrical communication between the blister packageand the storage/dispenser unit; and communicating information about thecontent of said compartment to said processor.
 12. A method of storingand dispensing medication as in claim 11, further comprising the step ofindicating a specific medication package within said compartment.
 13. Anautomated medication dispensing system as in claim 1, further includinga rupture detection mechanism.
 14. An automated medication dispensingsystem as in claim 13, wherein said rupture detection mechanismcomprises an optical scanning mechanism.